Dave Juarez Round Red Light Review

Dave Juarez Round Red Light

Round Red Light is the debut recording from Barcelona guitarist Dave Juarez and the album is comprised of all original material. Juarez has assembled a fine ensemble to present his compositions for this recording session, including John Escreet (Piano), Seamus Blake (Saxophone), Lauren Falls (Bass) and Bastian Weinhold (Drums) are solid players. The music is modern in nature and the melodies fairly complex.

This CD is an excellent showcase for saxophonist Blake, who is featured throughout and offers a solid performance on every track. Pianist Escreet offers solos that are largely scalar in their approach. Juarez has a John Scofield-like influence present in his playing and sound. He truly has an interesting and creative compositional gift in this musical style.

Titles include “Montpellier View,” “Round Red light,” “Lonely Brooklyn,” “Luna De Barcelona” and “RNP.” The music is well played and energetic. Fans of this genre will probably enjoy the overall effort of the quintet. This CD is definitely more about the total musical group and tunes than a feature of any individual.